When you are choosing new doors, the aluminium versus uPVC doors question comes up again and again. Both are excellent, modern materials, but they suit different homes, budgets and tastes. This guide sets them side by side honestly, so you can work out which is right for your York or North Yorkshire home.
The quick answer
If you want the slimmest frames, the most modern look and the strongest material for big glass, aluminium wins. If you want warmth, great insulation and the best value for money, uPVC is hard to beat. Most of the decision comes down to that trade-off between premium looks and price.
Let us break it down properly.
Looks and style
Aluminium is strong, so it holds a slim frame around a large pane. That means more glass, less frame and a crisp, architectural look that suits modern homes and extensions. It takes colour beautifully, with a huge range of finishes and a smart matt option. This is the material behind most contemporary bi-folds and sliding doors, and our aluminium sliding and bi-fold doors show off that slim look well.
uPVC frames are a little chunkier because the material needs more bulk for strength. Modern uPVC has slimmed down and comes in plenty of colours and woodgrain finishes, so it still looks smart. It just does not achieve the ultra slim sightlines of aluminium. For back doors and everyday doors, our uPVC door range covers the practical options.
Strength and security
Both are secure when well made and well fitted. Aluminium is the stronger material, which is why it is used for very large or heavy glazed doors. Both use multi-point locking and toughened glass as standard, so for a normal door you are well protected either way. The strength difference only really matters at large sizes.
Warmth and insulation
uPVC is naturally a good insulator, so it holds heat in well, which is part of why it is so popular for keeping bills down.
Aluminium conducts heat, so on its own it would be colder. Modern aluminium doors solve this with a thermal break, a barrier built into the frame that stops the cold transferring through. A quality thermally broken aluminium door performs well, though good uPVC still has a slight natural edge on pure insulation for the money.
For most homes the real world difference is small. Both keep a room comfortable through a Yorkshire winter.
Upkeep
Both are low maintenance and neither needs painting. A wipe down now and then keeps them looking good.
- Aluminium is extremely durable, resists warping and holds its finish for many years. Powder coated colours are tough and long lasting.
- uPVC is also easy to live with, though very cheap units can discolour over many years in strong sun. Good quality uPVC holds up well.
Cost
This is where uPVC pulls ahead. As a rough 2026 guide:
- uPVC doors supplied and fitted often range from around 700 to 1,500 pounds for a standard door.
- Aluminium doors typically run from around 1,200 to 2,500 pounds or more for a comparable door, with large glazed and bi-fold styles higher again.
Aluminium costs more because of the material and the premium look. Whether that is worth it depends on how much the slim, modern appearance matters to you. Prices vary with size, style and glazing, so treat these as ballpark figures and get a quote for your exact door.
Which should you choose?
Here is the honest summary:
- Choose aluminium if you want the slimmest frames, the most modern look, maximum glass and long term durability, and the budget allows.
- Choose uPVC if you want excellent insulation, great value and a smart, low maintenance door for less outlay.
There is no wrong answer. Plenty of homes mix the two, aluminium bi-folds onto the garden and a uPVC back door round the side. It comes down to your priorities and your budget.
FAQs
Are aluminium doors better than uPVC?
Neither is simply better. Aluminium gives slimmer frames, a more modern look and greater strength for big glass, but costs more. uPVC offers excellent insulation and value. The right choice depends on your budget and the style you want.
Do aluminium doors get cold?
Modern aluminium doors use a thermal break, a barrier in the frame that stops the cold transferring through. A quality thermally broken aluminium door keeps a room warm and performs well through winter. Older aluminium without a thermal break could feel cold, but current doors do not.
Which lasts longer, aluminium or uPVC?
Both last a long time. Aluminium is extremely durable, resists warping and holds its powder coated finish for many years, so it often has the edge on lifespan. Good quality uPVC also lasts well with minimal upkeep.
Is uPVC cheaper than aluminium?
Yes, uPVC is generally the more affordable option. A uPVC door typically costs less than a comparable aluminium one because of the material and finish. Exact prices depend on size, style and glazing, so get a quote to compare.
Trying to decide between the two? Download our latest brochure to see both ranges, or request a free quote and we will help you weigh them up at your home.